Disease Intensity Research Articles

Resistance Analysis of Padi Gogo Merah (Oryza Nivara L) Against Blast Disease

Rice Blast has been known as the main disease on paddy which has high severity leading to economic loss. Exploring rice resistance can be an effective way to improve productivity and prosperity toward this staple crop. This study aims to determine several local varieties which have potential for productions and resistances. This study used factorial randomized block design (RBD) consisting of 2 factors including plant spacing (25 x 25 cm; 25 x 30 cm; 25 x 40 cm); Upland rice variety MSP 17, Sigambiri Merah, Hamparan Perak and Kambiri Lumat. The results of the study reveal that variety has a significant effect on disease intensity especially Sigambiri Merah but not on Kembiri Lumat. However, there is no significant effect of spacing on blast intensity except in grain weight. Conclusion of this research was the varieties (V) selection of red upland rice is the best strategy to improve rice resistance toward blast disease. Keywords: Disease density, Paddy, Staple Crop.

Influence of Weather Parameters on the Development of Grey Mildew Disease in Cotton

A study was conducted at the Regional Agricultural Research Station in Warangal to investigate the impact of environmental factors on the development of grey mildew (Ramularia aerola Atk) in cotton. The research spanned from the Kharif season of 2019-20 to 2022-23 and focused on both Bt and non-Bt cotton genotypes grown in vertisols. Disease scores were recorded weekly on randomly selected labeled plants, and the percentage of disease intensity (PDI) was analyzed in relation to various weather parameters. Grey mildew was observed during the boll development stage up to the boll bursting stage, reaching its peak during the latter phase. Correlation analysis revealed significant negative associations between PDI and maximum temperature, minimum temperature, morning relative humidity, evening relative humidity, rainfall, and the number of rainy days. These findings indicate that these environmental factors influenced the development of the disease in both Bt and non-Bt genotypes. Furthermore, multiple linear regression analysis of PDI demonstrated that one percent increase in evening relative humidity led to a corresponding increase in the percent disease index of grey mildew. Specifically, in Bt (RCH 2 BG II) genotype, the increase was 0.38%, while in non-Bt (LRA-5166) genotype, it was 1.87%. Consequently, the study suggests the implementation of preventive and/or protective measures, such as the use of recommended fungicides like 0.3% wettable sulphur or 0.1% carbendazim.

Management of Early Blight of Tomato (Alternaria solani) through Application of Plant Extracts and Fungicides

In the present work, plant extracts and fungicides were evaluated for an effective management of early blight of tomato caused by Alternaria solani under in vitro and in vivo condition and determine yield losses and cost benefit ratio. The present investigations revealed that Hexaconazole and Azoxystrobin were most effective it produced 100.0 per cent mycelia growth inhibition, whereas minimum mycelia growth was recorded in Difenoconazole (1.89 mm) and Trifloxystrobin + Tebuconazole (4.0 mm). Calotropis gigantea extract @ 20 per cent was found best as it produced 77.0 per cent mycelia growth inhibition of Alternaria solani followed by Azadirachta indica (74.26%).The effect of foliar spray of Calotropis gigantea @ 20.0 per cent was found the best for managing early blight of tomato in field condition as minimum disease intensity (39.83%) and highest yield (15.25 t/ha) was recorded with highest benefit cost ratio (1.62). The minimum disease intensity (15.43%), highest yield (22.40 t/ha) and highest benefit cost ratio (2.75) was recorded in Hexaconazole @ 0.1 per cent followed by Azoxystrobin @ 0.1 per cent.

Clinical characteristics of the periodontal status of patients with diseases of the gastrointestinal tract with dysbiosis

Aim. To determine the prevalence and intensity of periodontal diseases in patients with diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, combined with a violation of the microflora. Materials and methods. A comprehensive clinical and laboratory study of 132 patients with gastrointestinal diseases with laboratory-established dysbiosis aged 30 to 45 years was conducted. For the study, an analysis of the outpatient chart, the results of laboratory tests (feces for dysbiosis), examination, palpation of the abdomen of patients with diseases of thedigestive system by a gastroenterologist therapist was performed, and the anamnesis of the disease was evaluated. When assessing dental diseases, the prevalence and intensity of dental caries and periodontal diseases were taken into account. The intensity of caries was determined by the CPI and CPI indices, and the communal periodontal index CPI was used to study the condition of periodontal tissues. A dental examination card recommended by WHO was used for the research. Results. In the structure of pathologies of the digestive tract, chronic hyperacid and hypoacid gastritis, dysfunctions of the hepatobiliary system, including chronic hepatitis and cirrhosis of the liver, peptic ulcer of the stomach and duodenum, gastroesophageal reflux disease, rarely gastroenterocolitis, were most often detected. At the same time, an unfavorable situation was revealed for diseases of the oral cavity, which include a high prevalence of dental caries and periodontal diseases. In addition, every third person examined had temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction associated with tooth loss. Conclusions. The revealed high levels of major dental diseases in patients with pathologies of the digestive tract, accompanied with dysbiosis, are often characterized by generalized inflammatory periodontal diseases. This situation dictates the need for research aimed at improving pathogenetic therapy with rational and adequate correction of the microbiota.

Application of Silica Nanoparticles in Combination with Bacillus velezensis and Bacillus thuringiensis for Anthracnose Disease Control in Shallot.

<b>Background and Objective:</b> Anthracnose in shallot contributes to significant losses. To solve this issue, silica nanoparticles, in combination with <i>Bacillus velezensis</i> and <i>Bacillus thuringiensis</i> were used together. <b>Materials and Methods:</b> <i>In vitro</i> antagonistic test of <i>Bacillus velezensis</i> B-27 with <i>Colletotrichum gloeosporioides</i> was carried out using dual culture and co-culture methods. Treatment in greenhouse experiments was carried out using single application of silica, <i>B. thuringiensis</i>, <i>B. velezensis</i>, a combination of <i>B. thuringiensis</i> and <i>B. velezensis</i> and a combination of <i>B. thuringiensis</i>, <i>B. velezensis</i> and silica. Detection of <i>B. velezensis</i> in the roots of shallot plants was carried out by PCR using a pair of specific primers. <b>Results:</b> <i>Bacillus velezensis</i> was able to inhibit the growth of <i>C. gloeosporioides</i> mycelium <i>in vitro</i>, both in the dual culture and co-culture methods, by 62.8 and 77.17%, respectively. Treatment of <i>B. thuringiensis</i> and <i>B. velezensis</i>, either individually or in combination with silica, could reduce the intensity of anthracnose disease by 20% each and stimulate the growth of shallot plants. The PCR detection using specific primers on the roots of shallot plants showed that <i>B. velezensis</i> was detected with a DNA band length of ±576 bp. <b>Conclusion:</b> <i>Bacillus velezensis</i> can inhibit the growth of <i>C. gloeosporioides</i> mycelium <i>in vitro</i>. Applying <i>B. velezensis</i>, <i>B. thuringiensis</i> and silica can reduce the intensity of anthracnose disease, promote plant growth and increase plant productivity. Furthermore, <i>B. velezensis</i> was detected in the roots of shallot plants, revealing that the bacteria are well-established.

Evaluation of lablab bean [Lablab purpureus (L.) sweet] genotypes: unveiling superior pod yield, nutritional quality, and collar rot resistance.

Malnutrition continues to be a significant concern at unacceptably high levels globally. There is significant potential for addressing malnutrition of human population through the biofortification of climate-resilient vegetables using strategic breeding strategies. Lablab bean [Lablab purpureus (L.) Sweet], a underutilized nutrient-dense crop holds great potential in this aspect. Despite its advantageous nutritional profile, the production, research, and consumption of lablab bean are currently limited. Addressing these limitations and unlock the nutritional benefits of lablab beans needs to prioritized for fighting malnutrition in local inhabitants on a global scale. Twenty five genotypes of lablab bean collected through exploration survey in Eastern India and were evaluated in 2020-2021. Among them, the nine highly diverse well adapted genotypes were again evaluated at the experimental farm of ICAR-Research Complex for Eastern Region, Patna, Bihar, India in 2021-2022. Horticultural important traits of lablab bean were recorded by using the minimum descriptors developed by ICAR-NBPGR in New Delhi and biochemical analysis was done by using standard protocols. Genotypic and phenotypic correlation and path coefficient analysis was done used understand relationships, interdependencies, and causal pathways between different traits. The outcome was revalidated by using principal component analysis (PCA). Descriptive statistics revealed substantial heterogeneity across the traits of lablab bean evaluated. Vitamin A content showed nearly a five-fold variation, Fe ranged from 5.97 to 10.5 mg/100 g, and Vitamin C varied from 4.61 to 9.45 mg/100 g. Earliness and dwarf growth was observed in RCPD-1 (60 cm) and early flowering (41 days). RCPD-3 and RCPD-12 had high pod yield due to their high number of pods and pod weight. Pod yield was significantly correlated with number of pod per plant (NPP) (rg = 0.995) and with average pod weight (APW) (rg = 0.882). A significant positive correlation was also found between protein and Zn content (rg = 0.769). Path coefficient analysis revealed that average pod weight had the most direct positive effect on pod yield, followed by NPP and protein content. The reaction of lablab bean genotypes to collar rot disease was also evaluated and significant differences in disease intensity were observed among the genotypes, with the resistant check RCPD-15 exhibiting the lowest disease intensity. The study highlights the substantial heterogeneity in lablab bean traits, particularly in nutritional components such as vitamin A, iron, and vitamin C concentrations. Early flowering and dwarf growth habit are desirable qualities for lablab bean, and certain genotypes were found to exhibit these traits. Positive correlations, both phenotypic and genotypic, existed among different traits, suggesting the potential for simultaneous improvement. Path coefficient and PCA revealed genotypes with high yield and nutritional traits. Finally, resistant and moderately resistant lablab bean genotypes to collar rot disease were identified. These findings contribute to the selection and breeding strategies for improving lablab bean production and nutritional value.

Rhizophagus intraradices dan Trichoderma asperellum sebagai Bioprotektan dan Biofertilizer pada Bawang Merah TSS

True shallot seed (TSS) is one of the alternative potential technologies to solve the availability of seed quality on shallot in Indonesia. Another problem in shallot production is infection by purple blotch and twisted disease. This research evaluated the potency of Rhizophagus intraradices and Trichoderma asperellum as bioprotectants and biofertilizer. T. asperellum was mixed in the soil before seedling transplanting, and R. intraradices was applied around the seedling roots at transplanting. The observed parameters were the shallot growth (the plant height, number of leaves, and length of root), plant health (disease incidence and intensity), and bulb resistance to Fusarium solani. The result showed that R. intraradices and T. asperellum increased the resistance of onion bulbs to the pathogen F. solani in the postharvest period, indicated by R. intraradices treatment that had an infection area of 21.99 mm2, followed by T. asperellum treatment 26.63 mm2, and control of 37.66 mm2.
 
 Keywords: Rhizophagus intraradices, Trichoderma asperellum, true shallot seed

Preventive application of Si to control orange rust on varieties of sugarcane seedlings cultivated under greenhouse conditions

Among the several factors limiting sugarcane production, the occurrence and severity of diseases such as orange rust is one of the reason for replacing cultivars and the use of silicon (Si) can reduce the intensity of diseases caused by pathogens. This study was carried out to evaluate the effect of a preventive application of Si to suppress the intensity of orange rust caused by Puccinia kuehnii on sugarcane seedlings. Three experiments under house conditions have been conducted using a Randomized Block Design with two in a 2x5 factorial scheme (soil with and without Si application x five foliar treatments), with variety RB92-579 and SP81-3250, and a third study with 13 treatments (soil and foliar treatments) with variety SP-015503. RB92-579 showed higher dry mass without Si application in the soil whereas higher levels of Si content in plants and soil with soil treated with Si was verified. Foliar treatments showed higher values of height, dry mass, and Si uptake. The severity level of orange rust on SP81-3250 with soil treated with Si was lower than on untreated soil. SP-015503 showed a dry mass and Si uptake increase with foliar treatments, especially with silicic acid. K silicate and silicic acid showed lower severity of orange rust than the control and fungicide. Si was able to reduce the severity of orange rust and improve plant development even though it does not have effectiveness as a preventive treatment to control orange rust in one of the studied varieties.

Protective Role of the Podocyte IL-15 / STAT5 Pathway in Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis

IntroductionDuring glomerular diseases, podocyte-specific pathways can modulate the intensity of histological disease and prognosis. The therapeutic targeting of these pathways could thus improve the management and prognosis of kidney diseases. The Janus Kinase/ Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription (JAK/STAT) pathway, classically described in immune cells, has been recently detailed in intrinsic kidney cells. MethodsWe describe STAT5 expression in human kidney biopsies from patients with focal and segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) and studied mice with a podocyte-specific Stat5 deletion in experimental glomerular diseases. ResultsHere, we show, for the first time, that STAT5 is activated in human podocytes in FSGS. Additionally, podocyte-specific Stat5 inactivation aggravates the structural and functional alterations in a mouse model of FSGS. This could be due, at least in part, to an inhibition of autophagic flux. Finally, Interleukin 15 (IL-15), a classical activator of STAT5 in immune cells, increases STAT5 phosphorylation in human podocytes and its administration alleviates glomerular injury in vivo by maintaining autophagic flux in podocytes. ConclusionIn conclusion, activating podocyte STAT5 with commercially available IL-15 represents a potential new therapeutic avenue for FSGS.

THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE LEVEL OF HIGHLAND HORTICULTURAL FARMERS' COMPLIANCE IN PESTICIDE APPLICATION AND THE PRESENCE OF PESTS AND DISEASES

Currently, many farmers are still very unfamiliar with using pesticides correctly and appropriately which lead environment pollution, population reduction of natural enemies and people health. The aims of this research were to determine the impact or influence of farmers obedience in applicating pesticide on the incidence of pests and diseases on highland horticultural cultivation, the presence of natural enemies, and level of pesticide residues in their horticultural products. This research was conducted in highland horticultural cultivation areas in Pagar Alam, South Sumatra. Data on farmers obedience in applicating pesticide was collected by interviewing eligible farmers by using questionnaires. Data on pests and disease incidence was collected by direct observation on the interviewed farmer's horticultural field. The variable measured were pest population and the in-tensity of damage of each pest, incidence and intensity of each disease and natural enemy type and population. The relationship between the level of farmer obedience in applicating pesticide and incidence of pests and dis-ease on their respected lands was determined by calculating their correlation coefficient. The results showed that there were significant correlations between the level of farmers obedience in applicating pesticide and the incidence as well as intensity of pests and diseases of highland horticultural crops.

Response of Five Shallot Varieties Applied with Bacillus spp. Against Twisted Disease

The use of several shallot varieties applied with the biological agent Bacillus spp. is one of the most developed methods of controlling twisted disease, as it is safe and efficient. The large number of shallot varieties released to farmers requires the selection of varieties with the best resistance response to twisted disease. This study aimed to determine the different responses between five local shallot varieties treated with a combination of Bacillus velezensis B-27 and B. cereus RC76 against the twisted disease. This study was conducted in a greenhouse and on the field using Tajuk, Bima Brebes, Bauji, Crok Kuning, and Manjung varieties, which were dipped and sprayed with a B. velezensis B-27 and B. cereus RC76. The treatment of B. velezensis B-27 and B. cereus RC76 on five varieties showed a good response to suppressing twisted disease. The twisted disease incubation period in five varieties treated with the combination of B. velezensis B-27 and B. cereus RC76 showed a slower result than the control, the disease incidence and intensity could be reduced by 70 90%. The best resistance response of varieties treated with the combination of B. velezensis B-27 and B. cereus RC76 was shown by Tajuk compared to the other four varieties.

Melatonin and fungal metabolites synergistically enhance tomato tolerance to Cd and disease resistance by regulating phytohormones

Mitigating biotic and abiotic stresses of plants through natural products is an environmental friendly and chemical free approach. In this study, the synergistic effect of exogenous application of melatonin (MT) and fungal metabolites (FM) were evaluated for their mitigation affects against bacterial wilt disease and cadmium toxicity in tomato plants. By using a multi-faceted approach including phytohormonal profiling, quantitative real-time PCR, biochemical assays, antibacterial test, and cadmium (Cd) content evaluation in plants, we presented evidence that MT and FM augmented disease resistance, tolerance to Cd toxicity and the combined treatment caused significantly increased effect by regulating phytohormone expression. Transcription of the genes related to the jasmonic acid (JA) and salicylic acid (SA) were enhanced while genes related to ethylene (ET) were decreased, which caused an increased JA and SA content and decrease in ET level. The plants treated with MT and FM showed significant reduction in disease intensity and Cd content compared to the control. Moreover, analyses indicated that the application of MT and FM reduced oxidative damage and increased antioxidant enzymes activity. The increased synergistic impact of MT and FM is supposed to be due to blending action mechanisms like resistance induction and enhanced growth impact of MT and antibacterial action of FM against R. solanacearum. These research findings emphasize the efficacy of a sustainable and comprehensive strategy in controlling bacterial wilt and Cd toxicity in tomato plants.

Biophysical factors and agronomic practices associated with Fusarium ear rot and fumonisin contamination of maize in multiple agroecosystems in Ethiopia

AbstractIn Ethiopia, Fusarium ear rot (FER) reduces yield, quality, and safety of maize and negatively impacts the economics of maize growers. However, there is almost no published information on geographic distribution, severity, or causal agents of FER in Ethiopia or levels of preharvest fumonisin contamination, biophysical factors, and agronomic practices associated with FER. Therefore, we surveyed 480 agricultural fields located in 10 Ethiopian zones to assess the incidence and severity of FER as well as agricultural practices and biophysical factors associated with each field. We also determined the concentration of fumonisin in samples taken from the fields. Results revealed that FER was prevalent with varied disease intensity and yield loss levels among the assessed zones. The highest percent severity index (PSI) was recorded in Mirab Wellega (33.2%), with a correspondingly maximum estimated mean grain yield loss of 13.6%, while the minimum disease severity 11.3% and yield loss 5.4% were recorded from the Ilubabor zone. Fumonisins (FB1, FB2, FB3, and FB4) were detected in 98% of the samples, and the levels ranged from 5 to 7517 μg kg−1 (mean, 540 μg kg−1 and median 82.4 μg kg−1). The mean fumonisin contamination of 1524.4, 1316.8, 744.5, and 742.6 μg kg−1 was recorded for Mirab Welega, Misraq Wellega, Assosa, and Hawassa zones, respectively. In total, about 11.3% of the maize samples exceeded the maximum tolerable total fumonisin limit set by the European Union in maize flour (>1000 μg kg−1) and are not suitable for human consumption. Disease severity highly significantly (p < 0.0001) correlated with biophysical factors such as insect infestation (r = 0.60, p < 0.0001) and weed infestation (r = 0.64, p < 0.0001) and agronomic practices such as nitrogen phosphorus sulfur fertilizer application rate (r = −0.39, p < 0.0001) and insecticide spray frequency (r = −0.55, p < 0.0001). Other agronomic practices such as earlier or later sowing date and inter‐cropping systems significantly reduced (p < 0.001) FER incidence, PSI, and the associated grain yield loss. There was significant (p < 0.0001) variation among maize cultivars currently under production in reaction against FER disease intensity. Moreover, the result of the present study attests a strong positive association (p < 0.001) between disease intensity and maize fumonisin concentrations. Generally, the study revealed a wider distribution of FER and fumonisin contamination of maize in the southwest major maize‐growing belts of Ethiopia. Thus, appropriate integrated pre‐harvest ear rot management strategies including the use of resistant cultivars and suitable agronomic practices are recommended for the management of FER and the associated mycotoxins in Ethiopia.

Evaluating the Effectiveness of New Criteria for Early Detection of the Start and Intensity of Influenza Epidemics in Russian Federation

Relevance. During the COVID-19 pandemic, an early determination of the start of the influenza epidemic by the incidence of influenza and SARS in total is impossible, due to the similarity of the clinical picture of SARS and lung cases of COVID-19.Aim. The goal is to calculate and test new criteria for early detection of the start of influenza epidemics and their intensity for each of the cities–reference bases (61) of the 2 WHO National Influenza Centers based on the incidence of clinically diagnosed influenza.Tasks. To evaluate the effectiveness of baseline influenza incidence and epidemic intensity thresholds for the general population and age groups of each city in the epidemic of 2022–2023. To give a retrospective assessment of the effectiveness of influenza baselines for cities, compared with the baselines of the corresponding Federal Districts, for the seasons from 2009 to 2022. To estimate the intensity of epidemics by influenza incidence over the previous epidemies of the pandemic cycle of influenza A/California/H1N1/ virus.Materials and methods. By the 2022–2023 season. baseline lines and thresholds of influenza incidence intensity were calculated using the method of moving epidemics according to clinical diagnostic data not only for federal districts, but also for each of the observed cities (61). The calculation of the baselines was carried out according to the data of the computer database of the Influenza Research Institute on the incidence of influenza by age groups in each city over the previous 5 years in the season from 2016–2017 to 2021–2022.Results. In the 2022-23 season application of new criteria for the start of epidemics (prev.- and post-epidemic baseline influenza incidence) and their intensity revealed: early onset of the influenza epidemic (07–13.11 2022); simultaneous onset in all children's age groups; geographical spread of the epidemic in federal districts; intensity of the epidemic in the general population and age groups. The thresholds for the intensity of influenza morbidity made it possible to clarify the intensity levels of influenza epidemics from 2009 to 2023 and to show that the pandemic cycle of the influenza A(H1N1) virus continues. A comparison of the effectiveness of urban baselines with federal ones in the epidemic of 2022–2023 showed that urban baseline flu incidence lines revealed the start of epidemics 1–3 weeks earlier: among the general population in 12 cities, persons over 15 years old – in 9, children 3–6 years old – in 6 and 7–14 years old – in 5. A retrospective assessment of the effectiveness of city and federal influenza baselines (from 2009 to 2022) showed their effectiveness both in the seasons from 2009 to 2016 (before the baseline calculation period) and after. The effectiveness of urban baselines for early detection of the start of epidemics depended on the etiology of the epidemic – more with influenza A(H3N2) than with influenza A(H1N1), the level of intensity of influenza diseases and the age group of the population (more in children with low intensity and in adults with an average level).Conclusion. The results obtained on the basis of population epidemiological data on the incidence of influenza, namely, new criteria for detecting the start of an epidemic in cities, can be used in health management bodies in cities and subjects of the Russian Federation for early detection of epidemics and management decisions, timely introduction of anti-epidemic measures, creating a stock of medicines. The expected effect of the method of early epidemiological diagnosis of epidemics is a decrease in morbidity, etc.

Evaluation of forty‑five rice (Oryza species) accessions for resistance to rice blast (Magnaporthe oryzae) disease under natural conditions

Abstract The experiments were conducted to investigate the resistance levels among forty‑five lowland rice accessions at the Teaching and Research Farm, Federal College of Agriculture, Ishiagu (Latitude 5°56″N and Longitude 7°41″E) Ebonyi State, Nigeria. Forty‑five rice accessions were screened for their resistance to the blast disease in row planting during the 2017 and 2019 cropping seasons using Randomised Complete Block Design (RCBD) and were replicated thrice. The data on disease intensity and agronomic performance were subjected to Analysis of Variance and the significant means were separated with the Tukey HSD test at p < 0.05. Assessment of blast disease showed that the incidence, severity, and resistance levels varied significantly among rice tested. Accession NG / SA / JAN / 023 had the highest disease incidence (59.06 %) while accessions NG / SA / DEC / 07 / 0300, TOG 5453, TOG 6804, FARO‑22 and FARO‑57 had no blast symptoms for the two cropping seasons. The disease severity ranged from 0.00 to 3.43 for the two cropping seasons. Five accessions (NG / SA / DEC / 07 / 0300, TOG‑5453, TOG‑6804, FARO‑22, and FARO‑57) were highly resistant, 10 were resistant, 14 moderately resistant, and 16 were moderately susceptible to the disease. In the 2017 cropping season, the result of the grain yield showed that accession Local Foreign and FARO 26 had the value of 46.77 g apiece while NG / SA / DEC / 07 / 0278 had the least (11.00 g). However, in the 2019 cropping season, the results of the grain yield showed that accession Local Foreign produced the highest yield (56.00 g), FARO 26 had 40.31 g grain yield while NG / SA / DEC / 07 / 0285 (22.0 g) had the lowest grain yield. The study concluded that using the blast‑resistant cultivars is the best option in managing blast disease, and the five highly resistant accessions could be planted out in other agroecological zones for further studies on managing rice blast disease in the field.

An improved high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method for detection of variations in the hydroxyproline content of tissue homogenates from Paracoccidioides brasiliensis-infected mice.

Paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM) is a severe granulomatous disease. The hallmark of this mycosis is fibrin degradation and granuloma formation as a result of a wound-healing process in the context of excessive inflammation. Therefore, as the content of collagen can be assessed by the methodology described in this manuscript, we propose that the content of hydroxyproline (HYP) be employed as a new and efficient measurement of granulomatous lesions developed. To estimate the level of HYP the major byproduct of the degradation process, we hypothesized that this simple and efficient technique could serve as a marker of disease severity. Five B10.A female mice were infected with P. brasiliensis and, after 15 days, the omentum was removed, subjected to histopathological analysis or processed (i.e. deproteinized and derivatized), and further analyzed on a reverse phase HPLC using a C-18 column. The omentum of five uninfected controls was also collected and similarly analyzed. Infected mice showed numerous, disseminated paracoccidioidomycotic lesions, as well as marked collagen deposits, as observed in histopathologic analysis, and high levels of HYP. Normal uninfected mice showed no granulomas, little or no deposits of collagen fibers, and very low levels of HYP, as evaluated by HPLC. Our results show that the disease intensity as evaluated number and the morphology of the granulomatous lesions were correlated to the HYP levels using small tissue samples from the omentum, the main target organ of P. brasiliensis. Here we propose an alternative methodology to follow disease evolution and, to some extent, fungal load in experimental P. brasiliensis infection and suggest its usefulness to other diseases with pronounced fibrin degradation.

Optical Biopsies Using Probe-Based Confocal Laser Endomicroscopy for Autoimmune Pulmonary Alveolar Proteinosis

Introduction: Increasing numbers of cases of mild asymptomatic pulmonary alveolar proteinosis (PAP) are being reported with the recent increase in chest computed tomography (CT). Bronchoscopic diagnosis of mild PAP is challenging because of the patchy distribution of lesions, which makes it difficult to obtain sufficient biopsy samples. Additionally, the pathological findings of mild PAP, particularly those that differ from severe PAP, have not been fully elucidated. This study aimed to clarify the pathological findings of mild PAP and the usefulness of optical biopsy using probe-based confocal laser endomicroscopy (pCLE). Methods: We performed bronchoscopic optical biopsy using pCLE and tissue biopsy in 5 consecutive patients with PAP (three with mild PAP and two with severe PAP). We compared the pCLE images of mild PAP with those of severe PAP by integrating clinical findings, tissue pathology, and chest CT images. Results: pCLE images of PAP showed giant cells with strong fluorescence, amorphous substances, and thin alveolar walls. Images of affected lesions in mild PAP were equivalent to those obtained in arbitrary lung lesions in severe cases. All 3 patients with mild PAP spontaneously improved or remained stable after ≥3 years of follow-up. Serum autoantibodies to granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor were detected in all 5 cases. Conclusion: Optical biopsy using pCLE can yield specific diagnostic findings, even in patients with mild PAP. pCLE images of affected areas in mild and severe PAP showed similar findings, indicating that the dysfunction level of pathogenic alveolar macrophages in affected areas is similar between both disease intensities.

Вплив стресофакторів на стан організму людини та органів і тканин порожнини рота (огляд літератури)

Abstracts. In today’s environment, every citizen of Ukraine is exposed to varying degrees of psycho-emotional and physical stress. It is impossible to underestimate the negative impact of stressors on the tissues and organs of the oral cavity in particular, as quite often the first signs of general pathologies appear in this complex. The aim of the study is to analyse data from scientific literature sources and provide updated information on the impact of psycho-emotional stress on the development of periodontal diseases in the current conditions. Materials and Methods. The bibliosemantic method was used to clarify the state of the problem, to study the analysis of the results of previous scientific research based on the sources of literature and electronic resources. Research results and discussion. The current conditions dictated by the war on the territory of our country is cause a state of permanent stress among the population of Ukraine, which is related to the basic human instinct of survival. In general, a person can be affected by one or more groups of objective causes of stress. The citizens of Ukraine are experiencing severe stress as a result of the ongoing conflict. This includes combatants, relatives and friends of these combatants, civilians living in the area close to the hostilities, the wounded, medical workers, and internally displaced persons. The stress factor provokes the emergence and rapid development of new mental and somatic diseases, it leads to the progression of existing diseases, but the reaction to the stimulus is different for each person and is an individual manifestation. The state of the oral cavity is a very sensitive complex to any changes in the body’s homeostasis, and often the first signs of general pathologies appear in it. Among the significant risk factors that contribute to the development and aggravate the course of periodontal disease, stress is one of the most important. Long-term exposure to stress can suppress the acquired immune response, causing an imbalance between pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory factors. Experimental studies in rat glands have demonstrated that acute stress induces dystrophic and necrobiotic changes in the gland, resulting in a reduction in its protein synthesis function. Psychological stress can contribute to disruption of the usual lifestyle, which adversely affects hygiene. Conclusions. After analysing scientific research data and reports on the current state of psycho-somatic health of people in Ukraine in modern realities, it is obvious that the prevalence and intensity of periodontal tissue diseases may have a new negative development. The peculiarities of the development, prevention and treatment of periodontal diseases in people experiencing severe psycho-emotional and sometimes physical stress require additional study and analysis. Key words: psycho-emotional stress, stress factor, periodontium, oral cavity

THE STATE OF PERIODONTAL TISSUES IN MILITARY PERSONNEL OF THE ARMED FORCES OF UKRAINE DEPENDING ON THE PSYCHO-EMOTIONAL STATE

The aim of the study: To assess the periodontal tissue condition of military personnel in the Armed Forces of Ukraine based on their psycho-emotional state. Materials and methods. A periodontal examination was conducted on 142 male military personnel of the Armed Forces of Ukraine who were undergoing rehabilitation or were on rotation, in order to achieve the stated goal. The age range of the subjects was 27 to 60 years, and their period of stay in the combat zone ranged from 3 months to 2 years. The patients underwent clinical and dental examination according to a standardized scheme, which included taking anamnesis and analyzing patients' complaints. The periodontal tissue condition was assessed using Danilevsky's M.F. (1994) classification, with additions by Mashchenko I.S. (2002). To identify symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in military personnel of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, we administered the PSL-5 questionnaire developed by the National Centre for PTSD. We also determined the presence and degree of psychoemotional stress in the study group using the methodology of Holmes T.H. and Rahe R.H. (1967). The level of reactive and personal anxiety was measured using the Spielberger-Hanin method, specifically the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) from 1970. Results. The study found that the presence of PTSD in military personnel of the Armed Forces of Ukraine intensifies periodontal tissue diseases. This is shown by an increase in advanced forms of generalized periodontitis (19.74±4.50 % of patients with PTSD vs. 5.00±4.87 % of patients without PTSD, p<0.01) and a minimal frequency of detection of inflammatory diseases of periodontal tissues (p<0.05). The study examined the correlation between periodontal tissue diseases and stress resistance and reactive anxiety levels in military personnel of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. The results showed that patients with a very high and high degree of stress resistance and a low level of reactive anxiety (I, II groups) exhibited a greater degree of resistance to stress. No changes were made to the original text as it already adheres to the desired characteristics. Inflammatory diseases were found to be more prevalent in the structure of periodontal diseases. Meanwhile, dystrophic-inflammatory lesions of periodontal tissues were more common in individuals with threshold resistance to stress and moderate reactive anxiety (III group) and those with low resistance to stress and high levels of reactive anxiety (IV group). Conclusions. The study found a close relationship between the psychoemotional disorders of the subjects and the condition of their periodontal tissues. This relationship is likely one of the leading factors that determine the intensity and severity of inflammatory and dystrophic-inflammatory diseases of periodontal tissues in this cohort of patients.

Substance P - a regulatory peptide with defense and repair functions. Results and perspectives for the fight against COVID-19.

Severe acute respiratory syndrome corona virus 2 (SARS CoV-2) is the cause of Corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19), which turned into a pandemic in late 2019 and early 2020. SARS CoV-2 causes endothelial cell destruction and swelling, microthrombosis, constriction of capillaries, and malfunction of pericytes, all of which are detrimental to capillary integrity, angiogenesis, and healing processes. Cytokine storming has been connected to COVID-19 disease. Hypoxemia and tissue hypoxia may arise from impaired oxygen diffusion exchange in the lungs due to capillary damage and congestion. This personal view will look at how inflammation and capillary damage affect blood and tissue oxygenation, cognitive function, and the duration and intensity of COVID-19 disease. The general effects of microvascular injury, hypoxia, and capillary damage caused by COVID-19 in key organs are also covered in this point of view. Once initiated, this vicious cycle leads to diminished capillary function, which exacerbates inflammation and tissue damage, and increased inflammation due to hypoxia. Brain damage may result from low oxygen levels and high cytokines in brain tissue. In this paper we give a summary in this direction with focus on the role of the neuropeptide Substance P. On the basis of this, we discuss selected approaches to the question: "How Substance P is involved in the etiology of the COVID-19 and how results of our research could improve the prevention or therapy of corona? Thereby pointing out the role of Substance P in the post-corona syndrome and providing novel concepts for therapy and prevention.